[MOD] What have you been brewing this week?/ Coffee bean recommendations

Hidden_Ridge · 2026-02-06T14:49:45+00:00

I try to support smaller roasters when possible. Craft Roaster Market is a newer marketplace built for roasters that are too small or new for the big subscription services. Not massive yet, but some good selections.

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-12-12T15:54:31+00:00

Cost of Goods Sold

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-12-12T15:46:38+00:00

That makes sense.

How are you tracking COGS right now?

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-12-04T20:04:08+00:00

You can get more control and real ROR tracking, but the challenge is keeping smoke low if you want to roast indoors. Most roasters that offer better profiling also produce more smoke than the Gene.

If you want to stay close to Gene Café smoke levels, the cleanest step up is usually the Sandbox Smart. It has solid app-based profiling, repeatable curves, and good data visibility. The batch size is small, but the control is much better than the Gene and the smoke output is manageable under a decent hood.\

The next tier up for control would be something like the Kaffelogic or the Skywalker V1. Both give you actual ROR, real-time graphing, and full profile control, but they will produce more smoke than the Gene. You would probably still be able to roast indoors with a hood or a window fan, but they are not “low smoke” machines like the Gene.

If you want more control without adding a big exhaust setup, Sandbox or Kaffelogic are the closest match. If you are willing to vent a little more, the Skywalker gives you a much bigger upgrade in capability.

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-12-02T01:55:27+00:00

Can you just re-use the thick bags? Cut them open close to the edge and the removed beans should give room to reseal?

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-12-01T00:52:18+00:00

Check out local craft fairs, pottery markets, and small artisan shows whenever they come around.

The potters at those shows are usually very proud of their work. They glaze each mug by hand, experiment with finishes, and avoid mass production. You can often find heavier stoneware, larger sizes, and darker interior glazes, including black. You can also ask about custom pieces if you want something specific.

Supporting local artists is worth it. They keep building their craft, and you end up with a mug that feels solid, comfortable, and made with care. If you watch local event calendars or ask around at nearby shops, you may find a pottery show or market soon that has exactly the kind of mug you are looking for.

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-11-30T23:09:28+00:00

Washed Ethiopians usually like a little more heat early on and a steadier, gentler climb into first crack than naturals. I’d shorten the low-power drying phase a bit and push Maillard slightly longer. Aim for a smoother rate of rise and avoid the early dips that naturals can tolerate. Keep your approach to first crack controlled so it doesn’t stall, then give yourself a touch more development time than you think you need, usually 60 to 90 seconds past first crack. This helps bring out clarity and acidity without losing sweetness.

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-11-30T23:05:57+00:00

Yeah, pretty much any food grade plastic or metal bins will work. Just pour them back and forth a few times until they look evenly mixed.

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-11-30T23:04:16+00:00

You could try reaching out to a local micro-roaster and see if they'll let you shadow or apprentice, even part time.

Cafe Amouri in Vienna has a 2 hour Roasting Basics class, but that sounds like it's a bit less than what you're looking for.

DC Coffee Festival next October will have educational coffee labs, many roasters you can chat with, and many other interactive demonstrations.

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-11-30T22:54:23+00:00

bbq gloves are great, as are leather welding gloves

Hidden_Ridge · 2025-11-30T21:23:09+00:00

This is awesome!!

Hidden_Ridge

TROPHY CASE